“Am I Blue” is a classic track from George Strait, released in August 1987 as the third and final single from his highly successful album Ocean Front Property. Written by David Chamberlain, the song marks a significant moment in Strait’s career as it became his 12th number one hit on the U.S. country charts, further solidifying his status as the “King of Country Music.”
Set to a smooth and steady Western swing rhythm, “Am I Blue” is a song that blends contemporary country production with timeless elements that hark back to Strait’s deep roots in traditional country. The song tells the tale of a man wrestling with heartbreak, asking a rhetorical question as he reflects on lost love: “Am I blue?” With his unmistakable voice, George Strait delivers the song in a way that makes you feel every note of heartache, yet there’s a simplicity and elegance in the way he conveys emotion—never overdone, always authentic.
Musically, the song leans heavily on traditional country instrumentation, featuring pedal steel guitars and fiddles, which add a rich layer to its Western swing foundation. This connection to traditional styles is what has always set Strait apart in his career. He’s managed to stay true to country’s roots while bringing a fresh sound that keeps it relevant for newer audiences. Kevin John Coyne of Country Universe praised the song for just that, giving it a B+ rating and noting how it “revels in his Western swing roots.” Coyne’s observation that the song’s “contemporary production makes it timely, but the arrangements and vocal performance make it timeless” perfectly captures what makes “Am I Blue” a standout in Strait’s discography.
At the time of its release, “Am I Blue” climbed quickly to the top of the charts, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart. It was a fitting follow-up to the massive success of Ocean Front Property, and it continued Strait’s dominance in the country music scene throughout the 1980s. His ability to deliver hit after hit with authenticity and sincerity made him one of the most beloved artists in the genre.
Even now, more than 30 years later, “Am I Blue” remains a favorite among George Strait fans. It represents the best of what traditional country music has to offer—a heartfelt story, a memorable melody, and a timeless sound that connects deeply with listeners. In an era when country music was beginning to lean more heavily into pop influences, Strait stood firm in his dedication to the genre’s roots, and “Am I Blue” is a perfect example of that commitment.
For those who appreciate the art of classic country storytelling, “Am I Blue” is a song that continues to resonate, showing that George Strait’s ability to capture the essence of human emotion in his music is as timeless as ever.